Both cause joint pain and swelling but they are completely different in cause and treatment. Wrong diagnosis means wrong treatment.
Differences:
| Feature | Gout | Rheumatoid |
|---|---|---|
| Cause | Uric acid crystals | Autoimmune |
| Onset | Sudden — hours | Gradual — weeks |
| Joints | Usually one large joint | Multiple small joints |
| Most common | Big toe | Fingers and wrists |
| Symmetry | Usually one side | Symmetrical (both sides) |
| Gender | More in men | More in women |
| Tests | Elevated uric acid | Positive RF and Anti-CCP |
Investigation and Confirmation:
- Blood tests: uric acid + inflammation markers + rheumatoid antibodies.
- Joint fluid analysis: crystals under microscope = confirmed gout.
At BEIT TARIQ Center, we accurately differentiate between causes to treat the real problem.